Isabella Millett is from London and is studying MA Culture, Criticism and Curation at Central Saint Martins (CSM). She has a background in Art History, and experience working in research and communications, facilitating public outreach projects.
Why did you choose to study MA Culture, Criticism and Curation and why CSM?
I was keen to look for a course that was not siloed, but combined academic rigour with practical projects. I chose MA Culture, Criticism and Curation as it presented itself as an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment that would still enable me to pursue high-quality individual research development.
What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far? What made it so interesting to work on?
It is hard to select just one. A transformative point in my learning was Unit 3, where we spent 10 weeks learning about archival procedures and archival criticality. I was introduced to some transformative theorists who have been fundamental in reflecting upon the power of the archive. This has heavily shaped the way I approach curatorial work. It is also a joy to work with old things.
At the moment, I am also learning so much from our final unit, Unit 5, as my collaborative project is to create an art journal. All the steps from commissioning, editing and production have been intense but completely invaluable.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?
Carefully consider the intention behind each project you do. A tutor on the course actually told me this recently and I think it is a really good way to centre our work and stay passionate about it.
What has been the highlight of your CSM experience so far?
Meeting the wonderful people in my cohort. Working together so closely has meant we quickly formed a strong bond, and this has helped us get through moments of hardship.
What are your career aspirations? Where would you like to be in five years' time?
I hope to pursue a curatorial assistant role in an arts institution or continue to curate exhibitions freelance. I also hope to continue in academia at some point, developing my research in archival practice.
What is the most important thing you've learnt on the course so far?
That a large component of curation is what you pay attention to, and what you bring attention to. The breadth of work and research that we can learn from, which is already out there and exists in the world, is unfathomable and truly exciting.
Find out more about MA Culture, Criticism and Curation